How to clean your washing machine's filter
By Alyssa Chua•Last updated Jul 24, 2023
Last updated Jul 24, 2023
Occasionally, you'll need to clean your washing machine to ensure it's working correctly. Regular cleanings can also help you get rid of unpleasant smells and prevent the need for future washer repairs. When cleaning, don't forget to tackle a very important component: the filter.
Your washing machine filter (also called a drain pump filter or washer filter) is an essential part of your appliance's draining system. Read our guide to find out how to clean your washing machine filter.
Where is the washing machine filter located?
A washing machine filter’s location depends on whether you have a front-load or top-load washing machine. It may also vary by make and model, so check your owner's manual first.
Front-load washer
With a front-load washer, you can usually find the filter near the drain pump at the bottom of the machine.
However, not all washing machine filters in front-loading machines are accessible. Check the manual or ask a professional for help if you can't find it.
Top-loading washer
Most top-loading washers made after 2001 don’t have washing machine filters in their drainage system. Instead, they rely on a more powerful draining pump and larger drain holes to prevent lint and dirt build-up.
If you have a washer made before 2001, you may find the filter at the bottom of the drum, underneath the center agitator. Check your manual if you're not sure what year your top-load washing machine was made.
In other cases, you may be able to find it:
- In the drum’s top lid
- Behind the water pump
- At the end of a drainage hose
- Behind a trap door in the front of the machine
Still unsure where your filter is located? Open your owner's manual, or contact an appliance professional near you.
How to clean the filter on a washing machine
First, make sure you have the following items:
- Cleaning cloth
- Dish soap/liquid detergent
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush
- Highly absorbent towel or a small basin
Cleaning a washing machine filter is quick and easy. Once you have your supplies, follow these steps:
- Remove the filter. Once you’ve spotted its location, remove the filter from its housing.
- Wipe the filter. Use a clean, damp cloth to remove lint and other debris stuck on the filter.
- Soak the filter. Get a bowl or basin large enough to submerge the filter and fill it with hot water. Add a small amount of dish soap or liquid detergent and white vinegar. Soak the filter in the solution for about 10 minutes.
- Scrub the filter. Use an old toothbrush or any soft-bristle brush to scrub away excess lint build-up.
- Clean the filter housing. Place a basin or towel on the floor to catch any excess water. Use a cloth to wipe lint and other debris that may have gotten stuck in the filter housing.
- Replace the filter. After you’ve cleaned the filter and its housing, return the filter to its place. You don’t have to wait for it to dry, as it will get wet again when you run a cycle.
- Run a short wash cycle. Check for leaks, which could mean the filter wasn't securely placed. If there are leaks, remove the filter and reinsert it.
What happens if you don't clean the filter?
So, why is it important to clean your washing machine filter? Because it plays an important role when cleaning your laundry.
The filter protects the drain pump by trapping dirt and lint. It prevents lint, dirt and debris from entering the drainage system. This helps your machine run as efficiently as possible and ensures proper draining after a wash cycle.
How often do you need to clean your washer's filter?
Most washing machines come with instructions about cleaning the washing machine filter. The general consensus is to clean it every few months.
How often you use your machine and the number of loads you run will determine whether you need to clean your washing machine filter more often. However, you should watch out for these tell-tale signs indicating you have a clogged filter and that it’s time to clean it:
- When your clothes have lint, dirt or excess detergent after washing
- When your clothes are still soaking wet after a wash cycle
- When you can smell mildew, which tells you there is water in the mechanism
Find cleaning and repair services near you
Cleaning your washing machine filter is relatively easy to do. However, if you aren’t familiar with your machine, it may be hard to find where it is located or clean it.
When that happens, it helps to talk to someone who knows about repairing and cleaning appliances. Download the Thumbtack app and hire a washing machine professional who can help you keep your washer in great shape.
FAQs
Do top-loader washers have a filter?
If your top load washer was made before 2001, it should have a filter. Washing machines made after 2001 rely on larger drain holes and a more powerful drain pump instead.
How do I know if my washing machine filter is blocked?
You can tell if your washing machine filter is blocked when you experience some of the indicators below:
- The washing machine vibrates and makes loud noises.
- The washing machine takes a long time to complete a cycle.
- The washing machine stops during a cycle.
- The washing machine leaves your clothes too wet.
Do you need to turn the water off to clean a washing machine filter?
It’s best to turn off your appliance and disconnect both the power and water supply. You can turn them on again when you’re running a short cycle. This can help you see if you installed the washing machine filter correctly.
How it works.
Search.
Browse profiles, see prices and use filters to find pros who match your project.
Chat.
Contact the pros you like to discuss project details.
Hire.
Check pro availability and book appointments right in the app.
Find local pros for your project
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll show you pros right for the job, with prices.